Defending champions Mumbai FC and PIFA Colaba FC registered contrasting wins to advance into the final of the RCF Nadkarni Cup played at the RCF Sports Complex on Monday.
Mumbai FC were made to work hard for their solitary goal win against a spirited Kenkre FC side in the second semifinal.
Nicholas Rodrigues’ spectacular effort in the 48th minute put the Khalid Jamil-coached side in the title round.
Earlier, playing under the scorching afternoon sun, PIFA Colaba appeared very cool and composed as they rallied from a one goal deficit to overcome Akbar Travels by a convincing 3-1 margin to seal their maiden entry in the final.
The architect of PIFA Colaba’s progress to the final was their foreign recruit George Udo, who scored twice on either side of the breather. After Mohammed Aslam put Akbar Travels in front in the 31st minute, Udo got his first goal in additional time of the first half and was again on target immediately after the change of ends.
The other foreigner in the side, Canopy Chu, rounded off the tally when he converted a penalty in the 80th minute.
Akbar Travels were dealt a blow when they were reduced to 10-man after defender Vincent was red carded for a deliberate foul on a PIFA Colaba attacker midway through the second half.
Kenkre FC came with a disciplined performance to match their more experienced opponents and the contest turned out to be a lively affair.
